DescriptionThis video provides step-by-step repair instructions for replacing the suspension pads on a Whirlpool/Kenmore top-loading washing machine. The most common reason for replacing the suspension pads is when the washer is vibrating.
All of the information for this suspension pad replacement video is applicable to the following brands:
Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Roper, Maytag, Estate, Inglis, Crosley, Amana, Admiral
Tools needed: flathead screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, hex socket, pliers, putty knife, 716th socket, wood block, spanner wrench, hammer
Step-By-Step Instructions1
As with any repair, be sure you've unplugged the appliance before beginning.
2
Your first step is to move the control panel out of the way.
3
To do this, remove the screws found at either end.
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On some models, these screws may be located in the rear panel or they may be covered by plastic end caps.
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Pull the end cap off from the top to access the screw.
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Remove both screws and rotate the panel up.
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Some models use clips instead of screws to secure the control panel.
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Insert a putty knife between the control panel and the cabinet to release the clips.
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Unplug the wire connector and snap out the spring clips.
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Using a flathead screwdriver, tilt the cabinet towards you, slide forward, and remove.
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Your next step is to remove the water inlet spout.
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Use pliers to release the clamp that secures the hose to the spout and pull the hose off.
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Push the two tabs of the spout outwards and lift up to detach the spout from the rear panel.
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Now remove the agitator.
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If the dispenser has a lock ring, pull the ring up with your fingers, then twist the dispenser upwards to remove.
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Next, remove the agitator cap.
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Depending on your model, you may also need to remove a dust cap.
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Hold the agitator base and use the 7/16 inch socket to remove the bolt and washer.
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Lift the agitator off of the drive shaft.
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Use a spanner wrench and hammer to remove the tub nut.
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Next, remove the top ring.
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Press down on the rim to help release the eight tabs.
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Now remove the inner tub by lifting it straight up.
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Your next step is to detach the drive block.
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Gently tap the block with a hammer to loosen, then pull it straight up off the drive tube.
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Use pliers to remove all three suspension springs from the mounting brackets, along with the tub counterbalance spring.
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Next, remove the three spring mounting brackets.
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Disconnect the water level pressure switch tube.
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Release the clamp that secures the drain hose to the tub port and pull the hose off.
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Be prepared for water to spill out.
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Next, remove the outer tub by lifting it straight up off the mounting stem assembly.
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You may need to use some lubricant to successfully remove the tub.
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Remove the water shield.
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Carefully lift up the mounting stem assembly and gear case and rotate the tribase to access the suspension pads.
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If still intact, remove the old suspension pads with a flathead screwdriver.
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Install the three new suspension pads by aligning the pegs in the pad with the holes in the tri base and tapping into place with a hammer.
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When all pads are installed, lift up the mounting stem assembly and rotate the tribase back into position.
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Replace the water shield.
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Slide the outer tub back onto the mounting stem assembly.
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Secure the drain hose to the tub port and connect the water level pressure switch tube.
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Reinstall the three spring mounting brackets.
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Reconnect the three suspension springs and the counterbalance spring.
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Replace the drive block by aligning the two slots in the block with the two tabs in the drive tube and pushing the block down into position.
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Carefully replace the inner tub onto the drive shaft.
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Align the tub ring with the outer tub and secure it with the eight tabs.
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Screw the tub nut onto the drive block and tighten it with the spanner wrench and hammer.
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Place the agitator back onto the driveshaft and reinstall the bolt and washer.
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Replace the dust cap if your model has one.
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Replace the agitator cap.
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If your model has a rinse dispenser, push it down until it snaps into place and press the lock ring down with your thumbs.
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Reinstall the water inlet spout by inserting the top portion of the tabs into the rear panel.
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Then push the bottom portion of the tabs outward and press down to lock the spout into place.
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Reattach the hose and secure it with the clamp.
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Now reinstall the cabinet.
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The front edge of the cabinet slides underneath the base frame.
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Use your foot to push it into position.
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Align the two notches in each side of the cabinet with the tabs on each side of the base frame.
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Now ease the cabinet to match up with the rear panel.
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Reinstall the spring clips.
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Reattach the wire connector.
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Rotate the control panel down and lock the clips into place or reinstall the two screws if applicable to your model.
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Replace the end caps by aligning the tab with the slot at the bottom and snapping the cap into position.
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You're now ready to plug the appliance back in to make sure it's functioning properly.